Simon Taufel: Which part of the Spirit of Cricket did Australia breach?
Former ICC umpire says "hypocrisy and lack of consistency from some people and groups is quite interesting"
- "Have you seen any umpire tell a fielding side that the keeper standing back is not allowed to attempt a stumping?
- "Was there a complaint from anyone when Bairstow tried to stump Marnus exactly the same way in the first innings?
- "What has Jonny Bairstow said about his dismissal? He has been very quiet. Why?
- "My experience is when people don't like a dismissal under the Laws of Cricket, they cite the Spirit of Cricket to support their view.
- "Which part of the codified Preamble (the Spirit of Cricket) was breached by the fielding side?
- "What did the fielding side do in effecting a legitimate dismissal that unfairly impacted the ability of the batter in their attempt not to be dismissed? (Did they run into him or distract him or prevent him making good his ground?)
- "Should a batter be immune from dismissal as per the Laws by simply being negligent (and leaving his ground too early)?
- "Did England retire Ben Duckett when they disagreed with the Starc catch decision as per the Laws and umpires' decision?
Preamble to the Laws: Spirit of Cricket
Cricket owes much of its appeal and enjoyment to the fact that it should be played not only according to the Laws, but also within the Spirit of Cricket. The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains, but extends to all players, match officials and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents.
Respect is central to the Spirit of Cricket.
Respect your captain, team-mates, opponents and the authority of the umpires.
Play hard and play fair.
Accept the umpire's decision.
Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct, and encourage others to do likewise.
Show self-discipline, even when things go against you.
Congratulate the opposition on their successes, and enjoy those of your own team.
Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match, whatever the result.
Cricket is an exciting game that encourages leadership, friendship and teamwork, which brings together people from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the Spirit of Cricket.